Are You One of Those Librarians Who Visits Libraries When You Travel?

The Indiana State Library has served the citizens of Indiana since 1825. A few steps away from the Indiana Statehouse, the State Library is open to the public for a variety of needs, including but not limited to: genealogy, Indiana history, preservation, rare books and manuscripts, reference and government services, Talking Books and Braille library, as well as the State Data Center.

The magnificent limestone building housing the Indiana State Library and the Indiana Historical Bureau was dedicated in 1934. Within the building are beautiful stained-glass windows, colorful murals, walnut-paneled walls, brass accents and wood carvings. The building is a showcase in itself, an incredible example of early 1930s American architecture constructed with Indiana limestone, sandstone and walnut.

Indianapolis Public Library Atrium

Indianapolis Public Library – Central Library

Originally constructed in 1917 in the Greek Doric style with Indiana limestone, the Central Library was considered one of the most outstanding architectural libraries in the country. A recent expansion transformed the space, creating a breathtaking glass and steel Atrium that serves as an impressive event space. And city skyline views can be enjoyed by smaller groups and boards from the sixth-floor space. (20-minute walk)

Typewriter on Display at the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library

Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library

In honor of his wit and wisdom, the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library champions the literary, artistic and cultural contributions of the late write, artist, and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. The library/museum serves as a cultural and educational resource unique to the nation. Sit hunched over the same kind of typewriter Kurt Vonnegut pecked away on, next to his famous red rooster lamp. See Vonnegut’s drawings and doodles (including Kilgore Trout) and the author’s actual typewriter, reading glasses, Purple Heart, one of his infamous packs of Pall Mall cigarettes and other belongings generously shared by his family. Marvel over the rejection letters Vonnegut received from shortsighted editors. (11-minute walk)